The dynamics and role of lichens in a managed Cladonia-Scotch pine forest (Cladonio-Pinetum)

Abstract

The Cladonia-Scotch pine forest is a community seriously endangered by man's influence. Secondary succession in the Cladonio-Pinetum habitat is discussed and four stages of succession are distinguished. These are correlated with the succession of cryptogamous plants, mainly lichens, on decaying pine stumps and on pine trunks. The effects of the most common methods in forest management on the floristic composition, the phytocenotic structure and the biomass of the Cladonio-Pinetum herb and moss-lichen layers have been investigated. The include mineral fertilization, introduction of underbrush, grazing and litter-raking. These methods are shown to have on adverse effect on lichen growth. Also presented is an analysis of the lichen flora and the characteristics of the more important plant communities containing lichens in the north-western part to the Bory Tucholskie woodland (northern Poland).